Uwe Günther , Chief Procurement Officer at Deutsche Bahn , discusses the procurement methods his company has utilised amidst a significant digital transformation

A s an international provider of mobility and logistics services operating worldwide in over 130 countries , Deutsche Bahn ( DB ) is a leader in rail passenger transport across Europe . Overlooking the busy streets of Berlin , Germany , from his desk in the heart of the city , Uwe Günther , Chief Procurement Officer ( CPO ) at DB , says his procurement strategy has transformed significantly since first joining the firm in 2007 . “ From the beginning , I have put an increased focus on a better structure , a consistently applied strategy and a more reliable procurement network ,” says Günther . “ Since I joined Deutsche Bahn as CPO , we have worked to bring the procurement function together as we needed to provide all the necessary goods for our business units in the areas of public transport , logistics and infrastructure . In parallel , we have to ensure the right quality and cost as well as enabling efficiency .”